LA-based Allan Barnes’ love of “Jurassic” image-making technologies – ambrotypes, daguerreotypes, instant film, and the like – lends itself well to his portraits of artists, models and performers from the LA scene. Recently, his work has displayed a greater degree of sartorial opulence thanks to contributions from the likes of Lucent Dossier’s Dream Rockwell (who created the collar above), Billy and Mellie (formerly) of Antiseptic, and one Miss Laila (responsible for the masks/headpieces below, though there’s no known URL for her work), among others. Sadly, many of the most stunning images are marred by what I consider to be a gruesome watermark, but that doesn’t dissuade me from sharing them after the jump. Barnes is also a teacher, so LA residents interested in learning old-timey processes are encouraged to follow him on Flickr for updates on workshops in the area.

I usually only enjoy this kind of work ( the modern use of it that is) on a technical level. At times the subject matter isn’t engaging or trying really really hard to look old and ancient. In this case you have a great use of technique, style, and subject matter that meshes well. There are enough little details to make the eye go back vs. just going “Oh pretty!…next.”

That first image is the strongest of the set and one I would not have guess was of THIS time.

I like the challenge of producing this digitally but seeing someone do this in the analog world is fantastic. More so since its increasingly difficult to find people good at it. Quality work, would love to see the original some day.

The watermark DOES suck…but understandable. Just happy to see it online at all.

Hi folks,
Thanks for your comments. I understand that some people would find a big red signature a bit hideous (When asked I always am willing to provide publications with watermark free versions!) but I have noticed my work appearing in other places sans credit, sans permission, so until I get my book together and published, folks will have to grit their teeth and see red.
My work, I think, has gotten better since I’ve been collaborating with Rowynn MIchelle Dumont, who came to me to do a directed study, and has assisted and coordinated many of these projects. Without her energy, I might just be another one of these guys making shots of people wearing top hats and goggles.

Hello Nadya,
I wanted to thank you first of all for acknowledging and giving me production credits. I appreciate it. I also just wanted to let you know that the name of the model on the 3rd photo from the top, with the collar by Dream, is Niko Sonnberger. :)